Volunteer Opportunities
Looking for a new adventure? The National Railroad Museum relies on both the hard work and dedication of our volunteers. Volunteers help in a variety of ways, including train operations, educational programming, groundskeeping, special events, and the restoration of rolling stock in our restoration shop. Volunteering at the Museum is a chance to build new skills, utilize skills you already have, connect with your community, and spend your time enmeshed in history.
We offer Museum volunteer opportunities for almost any interest, skill set, or age. Below are a few ways to get involved – if you don’t see something that fits right away, don’t hesitate to reach out. We would love to find a place for you!
Volunteer Roles
Train Operations
Seasonal train rides are a large part of the museum experience. Trained volunteers serve as conductors and engineers for these excursions. We provide an extensive training program for qualified volunteers.
Special Events
Special events attract large numbers of patrons to the museum, and we always need extra hands for crafts, activities, game stations, gift shop support, and more. A great option for groups looking to volunteer together!
Education
Museum Education staff offers dynamic educational programming for all ages, and we need help preparing and processing these programs. Programs include summer camps, tours, and more!
Archives & Collections
The Museum’s collection is vast and always growing. Volunteers assist the Curator with cataloging, filing, research questions, and special projects – a great fit if you love detail work.
Restoration
Do you have experience with bodywork, restoration, carpentry, electrical, or machinery? Our Restoration team works year-round preserving and restoring historic train cars and could use your hands-on skills!
The Polar Express Train Ride™
Museum volunteers and staff put on over 40 Polar Express shows per year. Learn more about our casting and show processes and join us this holiday season!
Immediate Volunteer Needs
- Restoration Department – Current Restoration: Union Pacific No. 8003 Dome Diner: Put your skills to work preserving history! The National Railroad Museum is seeking volunteers to assist with the restoration of historic railroad equipment. We welcome individuals with backgrounds in bodywork, automotive maintenance and refinishing, welding, fabrication, painting, mechanical repair, and more. Whether you’re bringing years of experience or looking to learn a new trade, you’ll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while helping preserve our railroad heritage for future generations.
- The Great Pumpkin Train: Please join us to volunteer at The Great Pumpkin Train on Saturday, October 10th, and Sunday, October 11th, 2026. We have shifts available from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm and 12:45 pm – 5:15 pm. All of the time slots and volunteer positions are listed below. If you would like to volunteer all day, please sign up for both shifts. Food will be provided for volunteers staying for the full day. Volunteers ages 10-15 must be signed up with a parent or adult chaperone. Sign up to volunteer at this link.
Ready to volunteer? Click below, fill in the application form, and we will be in touch!
By visiting the National Railroad Museum (or participating in one of our Museum programs/events), you understand that you may be photographed, filmed, or videotaped, and you hereby give permission and grant the perpetual right to use your likeness, image, or photo (collectively, “image”), without compensation, for broadcast, or exhibition in any medium, and to put the finished pictures/recordings to any legitimate use without limitation or reservation. To learn more, or plan your visit, please visit this page.
Contact Us
Katie Lutzke, Volunteer & Membership Coordinator | (920) 437-7623 or volunteers@nationalrrmuseum.org